What is the recommended depth of chest compressions for an adult during CPR?

• A. About 1 inch (2.5 cm)
• B. About 2 inches (5 cm)
• C. About 3 inches (7.5 cm)
• D. About 4 inches (10 cm)

Answer: (B)

During adult CPR, you need to compress the chest deeply enough to push blood out of the heart and circulate it through the body, but not so deep that you risk serious injury. About 2 inches (5 cm) is the recommended depth. This depth strikes a balance: it generates enough pressure to move blood and maintain perfusion to vital organs like the brain and heart, while minimizing the risk of injury that comes with deeper compressions. If you compress only around an inch, you likely won’t move enough blood with each push. If you go to 3 or 4 inches, the chance of rib fractures or internal injuries increases, especially for individuals with fragile bones or when performed by someone without specialized training. Keep a steady rhythm, allow the chest to recoil fully between compressions, and aim for about 100 to 120 compressions per minute.